Saturday 07 April 2018

1940s weekend for HistoryFest

This year’s HistoryFest marks the decade of the invasion, occupation and liberation of the Bailiwick.

Taking place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 April in the historic setting of Castle Cornet, from 10:00 to 16:00 each day there will be a number of activities for people to enjoy.

Jo Dowding, Access & Learning Manager of Guernsey Museums said, "We choose a different theme every year and this time, with the release of ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ film, it’s a perfect opportunity for us to highlight the 1940s. In contrast to other themes such as The Tudors, we’ll actually have people coming along and sharing their first-hand experience of this period. It’s important we share these memories."

In the Hatton Gallery, there’ll be short living history performances and wartime memories from the Guernsey History in Action Company. These include ‘Potato Peel Pie’, where Margaret shares her experiences growing up during the occupation - and her reaction to the famous book which has now become a film.

Elsewhere in the Castle, visitors can enjoy a bowl of army stew or Guernsey beanjar from the field kitchen, hosted by the Guernsey Military History Company. The Company will also host a small camp with members dressed in period costume, ready to meet the public, show objects and answer questions.

There will be a small display of military vehicles and bicycles during the weekend. Visitors will also have the chance to go on bunker tours around the Castle. Festung Guernsey is one of many organisations taking part this year. They will be hosting a stall about the work they do restoring Second World War fortifications.

Families will be catered for in the ‘make do and mend’ area. Children and adults can learn about how Guernsey people coped with shortages during the occupation.

HistoryFest is part of this year’s Guernsey Heritage Festival and takes place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 April. Normal Castle admission applies, but admission is free with your Discovery Pass. Entry is also free if you come in full 1940s dress.

Activities run on both days from 10.00-16.00 and the Castle is open 10.00-17.00.

Visitors are advised to check the timetable on the website (available from 5 April): museums.gov.gg.

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